Welcome to Zambia

I’m here in one of the friendliest countries I think I will ever visit. I’ve never had more people smile, say “Hi” or ask how I am than I have here in Lusaka (the capital city of Zambia). Zambia is dry and flat but very beautiful. Lusaka is much more developed than I expected which I think is a good transition into living in Africa. We were supposed to leave this morning at 4am for Mwange (the refugee camp where I will be working), but the car went to the shop for the day today instead. They say that no plans are definite/reliable in Zambia…being late is just a way of life. For someone used to being on “Dena time” for lacrosse, this will definitely be a change in the way I think about time.

The Meheba team is here visiting for the weekend because they just finished their 2 months in the refugee camp that FORGE works in southern Zambia. I’ve had a great time hanging out with them. They have all been really welcoming and very knowledgeable to talk with before I head out to the Mwange for a year. They have been telling me a lot about what to expect when I get to the camp from UNHCR officials, other IPs (implementing partners of the UN) and OPs (operating partners of the UN) and from the refugees. It sounds like it won’t be easy to work there, but it will be an incredibly fulfilling experience. We also all went to a club last night to see the show of the fiance of a girl, who works for FORGE.. He was great and we had an awesome time! I’ve included a picture of her fiance, Matthew, and his band.

A few of us have a 13-hour drive ahead of us starting tomorrow at 4am with Robson, our fun and talkative driver. We are going first to Kala camp, where we will spend the night and then Nick and I will drive to Mwange the next day. Lots of traveling to get to the camp! It will be a full 7 days before I actually arrive in Mwange from the day I left Annapolis.

I’m headed off to Korean BBQ for the second time since I’ve been here. I’ve bought a phone card and have posted my cell number on the right side under “Contact Info.” It’s not worth trying to call, but you can definitely text message. I hope all is well! I will update everyone again soon.

xoxo